The hatchback 3 doors Citroen DS3 2010 - 2014 year modification 1.4 AMT (95 hp)

Citroen DS3: A Compact Hatchback with French Flair

The Citroen DS3, a stylish and compact hatchback, is a standout in the B-class segment. Produced between 2010 and 2014, this French-made vehicle combines practicality with a touch of elegance, making it a popular choice for urban drivers and those seeking a reliable yet fashionable car. With its 3-door hatchback design, the DS3 offers a unique blend of performance, efficiency, and safety, all wrapped in a distinctive package.

Performance and Efficiency

Under the hood, the Citroen DS3 features a 1.4-liter petrol engine that delivers 95 horsepower, providing a balanced mix of power and fuel efficiency. The engine, paired with a 5-speed automated manual transmission (AMT), ensures smooth gear shifts and responsive handling. With a combined fuel consumption of 5.5 liters per 100 kilometers, the DS3 is an economical choice for daily commutes and long drives alike. Its maximum speed of 184 km/h and acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 13.2 seconds make it a capable performer on both city streets and highways.

Design and Dimensions

The DS3's compact dimensions—3948 mm in length, 1715 mm in width, and 1483 mm in height—make it ideal for navigating tight urban spaces while still offering ample interior room. The 3-door hatchback design is both practical and stylish, with a wheelbase of 2464 mm ensuring stability and comfort. The car's ground clearance of 130 mm and wheel sizes ranging from 195/55 R16 to 205/45 R17 provide a smooth ride over various road conditions.

Interior and Cargo Space

Inside, the Citroen DS3 offers a surprisingly spacious cabin for its class, with a trunk volume that ranges from 285 liters to an impressive 980 liters when the rear seats are folded down. This flexibility makes it a practical choice for both everyday errands and weekend getaways. The car's curb weight of 1215 kg and gross weight of 1558 kg contribute to its nimble handling and fuel efficiency.

Safety and Reliability

Safety is a strong suit for the DS3, as evidenced by its 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating. The car is equipped with front ventilated disc brakes and rear drum brakes, ensuring reliable stopping power. The independent front suspension and semi-independent rear suspension provide a comfortable and stable ride, even on uneven surfaces. With its Euro 5 ecological class and CO2 emissions of 127 g/km, the DS3 is also an environmentally conscious choice.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: The Citroen DS3 offers a stylish design, excellent fuel efficiency, and a high safety rating. Its compact size makes it ideal for city driving, while the spacious interior and versatile cargo space add to its practicality.
• Cons: The 1.4-liter engine, while efficient, may feel underpowered for drivers seeking more spirited performance. Additionally, the 5-speed AMT transmission, though smooth, may not appeal to those who prefer a manual or more advanced automatic system.

Conclusion

The Citroen DS3 is a well-rounded compact hatchback that combines French design flair with practical features. Its efficient engine, spacious interior, and strong safety credentials make it a compelling choice for urban drivers and small families. While it may not be the most powerful car in its class, its blend of style, efficiency, and reliability ensures that it remains a standout option in the B-segment.